A wide (and dry), brown land

Closer to arriving at my long-time friends in the mid afternoon, about 425 klms. from home, this was typical roadside wattle, lots of it.

The continuing journey, after breakfast the following morning though, to see Marshes country, was to be one 'just for us two girls', in their 4-W-D ute.  Message was, water was 'up' and we'd need this for access (to the birding lookout as it turned out).

Along the way, a little old-timer with a pepper-corn tree alongside.

 I have to wonder though, about the two doors side-by-side.  His 'n hers? Looks perhaps a later addition, that white door. Power box beside the window there was typical for the old homes.

From time to time emus were spotted and we'd pull up to get photographs if they were reasonably close to the roadside, but every time, they'd run off.  Such a big bird, they amazed me how timid. 

At Warren, central western N.S.W., a peek through the fence to the Queensland Cotton gin, where earlier this month it was reported on ABC Rural, fire had destroyed $7 million worth of cotton bales.

Before we get to see any marshes though, you've got to experience the 'other side' of the country, as we did, nearby at Willie's Retreat. 

One highlight not to be forgotten in a hurry; when driving along the road searching for this entry gate, was seeing a wedge-tail eagle in flight, carrying a snake.  It was the most amazing thing to witness; if only I could've caught the one-in-million chance photograph!  Not to be, but here is gate #1, of three to open-shut before reaching our on-site caravan for that night.

The purpose of staying here was its access to the Macquarie Marshes.  We'd both thought some of the marshes was within walking distance of Willie's Retreat, but not a drop of water to be seen.  

Bearded Dragon

 top marks for camouflage!